Children’s perceptions and behavior with respect to glass littering in developing countries: A case study in Palestine’s Nablus district

Abstract

The aims of this study were to assess the current situation regarding glass litter on the streets and children's attitudes, and behavior concerning glass litter. Out of 240 interviewed children, 41.7% admitted glass littering. This was reflected in the high incidence of injuries caused by street glass among children; 140 (58.3%) of the children interviewed had been injured by broken glass at least once while walking outdoors and 95 of the children had received professional medical care for the lacerations. As reported by the children who admitted to glass littering, the most effective elements (29.6%) in preventing them from littering the streets with glass were moral and religious convictions, and the next most effective practice (20.4%) was improved street cleanliness. Preventive measures such as encouraging moral and religious convictions among children, more effective street cleaning by local authorities, improved footwear, education, and glass recycling incentives, as well as engaging the community in street cleaning campaigns, are all needed to address this public health hazard. More recreational facilities should be provided. Public awareness initiatives led by environmentalists, social workers, primary health care providers or home healthcare providers may also help educate children to wear shoes, prevent glass injuries and increase glass litter awareness.